It is unfortunate that after three years and after being investigated by multiple local, state and federal agencies and then returned to the field to work, Agent Lonnie Swartz is now facing criminal charges.

As the union that represents the men and women of the Border Patrol, we are there with steady support for Agent Swartz as he fights these accusations. To help ensure that he receives a fair trial, we are providing him with excellent, experienced legal counsel. He will be well represented and given every opportunity to tell his story in a court of law.

Sadly, our agents and all law enforcement officers operate in a world of political agendas and armchair quarterbacking. But our jobs are dangerous and the decisions we make every day determine if we will return home safely to our families. We ask the public to withhold judgment about Agent Swartz while the legal process unfolds.

As for the union, we believe that until proven otherwise Agent Swartz is innocent of these charges. We stand with him and his family during this difficult time.

On Decmber 15, 2010, Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry was murdered while conducting operations against rip crews in southern Arizona. His murder shocked the nation, devastated his family, and left a wound on the US Border Patrol.

This week, suspects in Terry's murder will be tried in Tucson. His family will be forced to relive the pain and suffering they endured in the aftermath of his death. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they seek to claim some small piece of justice. No trial or prison sentence will ever fill the void that exists in their family. Our support for them and for Brian Terry will never waver.

The National Border Patrol Council exists to "protect those who protect our borders." Brian Terry laid down his life to protect his teammates, his community, and his nation on that fatefull night. We are grateful for his courage, we mourn his loss, and we will not forget him. Honor First.

The National Border Patrol Council does not condone corruption by Border Patrol agents nor the abuse of illegal aliens. Those who commit these crimes do not deserve to have the honor of being U.S. Border Patrol agents.

In typical Customs and Border Protection fashion however, they are throwing numbers at a problem by calling for the hiring of 350 Internal Affairs investigators. The National Border Patrol Council sees this recommendation as premature and calls on CBP to review its internal investigation capabilities. Overlapping areas of responsibility need to be eliminated, integrity issues amongst investigators eliminated, and clear, concise guidance given to all employees on how investigations will be used.